Hey gorgeous ballet bunnies! š° It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, here, fresh back from another whirlwind jaunt through history! This month, we're taking a trip back to the roaring 1930s, a decade that pulsed with jazz, glamour, and an unmistakable energy. It was a time of significant change, especially for fashion, and it's no surprise that the world of ballet reflected this transformation too.
So, let's shimmy back to the 12th December, 1937, and see what fashion fabulousness awaited us...
I arrived, of course, in my trusty pink time-travelling leotard, its sequins shimmering in the crisp December air, landing smack-dab in the heart of London's West End. What an amazing place this was! Buildings dripping with art deco glamour, neon signs ablaze, and a sense of excitement that buzzed through the streets.
This era, ladies and gents, was the epitome of elegance. The 1930s leotard scene, however, wasn't just about swishy, flowing silks. While traditional styles reigned supreme, with their focus on the lines of the body and the elegance of movement, a hint of playful rebellion was starting to creep in. It was a decade of both classical beauty and a new zest for exploration - think slinky silk, subtle cutouts, and a daring touch of skin-baring, with just enough flash to cause a stir!
Fashion Finds on a December Day:
I waltzed into Liberty London, that haven of style, and was utterly captivated by their exquisite silk leotards. Soft, flowing, and exquisitely cut, they exuded an air of understated chic that made my heart skip a beat.
At Harrods, a wonderland of fashion and fabulousness, I spotted the most extraordinary knitted leotards. They were oh so comfortable and stylish, perfect for practicing barre work without sacrificing a hint of elegance.
My search for that iconic 1930s style took me to the newly-opened āBallet Fabrics & Designsā shop in Covent Garden, where a treasure trove of sequins and feathers beckoned. This shop, run by the wonderfully flamboyant Miss Beatrice, was truly a leotard loverās dream.
But, a 1930s trip wouldn't be complete without a ballet performance. This being December, London's Covent Garden Opera House was in full swing. My heart danced as I stepped into the theatre, the scent of plush velvet and jasmine wafting through the air. The grandeur was simply breathtaking, but what really had me gasping were the dancers and their breathtaking leotards.
Dance to Remember:
āThe Nutcracker,ā at the Royal Opera House ā This classic ballet was a dream come true! The ballerinas twirled effortlessly in their pale pink tulle tutus, adorned with delicate lace, their movement light as a feather. I was completely captivated.
āGiselle,ā at the Sadlerās Wells Theatre ā A dance drama of passion, loss, and redemption, āGiselleā had me utterly enthralled. I especially loved the contrasting costumes - the airy and whimsical white tutu of Giselle and the sleek, sophisticated leotard worn by the vengeful Myrtha, leader of the Wilis, was simply breathtaking.
I felt a deep sense of connection to the spirit of these dancers. Their passion, grace, and power transcended time, reminding me why I, your resident pink tutu-clad time-traveller, am so dedicated to spreading the love of dance!
And now, darling ballet bunnies, a bit of gossip from this tripā¦ It was at one of those exciting little street corner cafĆ©s in Londonās Soho that I overheard a conversation that got me very excited! It seems that in 1938, some daring French designers are experimenting with new fabrics ā think neon stretch fabric for leotards! Talk about revolutionary! Now, if only I could get my hands on some of that neon material!
Outfit of the Month:
A blush pink silk leotard, the bodice trimmed with intricate silver embroidery, perfect for those swirling pirouettes.
An absolutely adorable feather-trimmed tulle tutu ā picture it, delicate tulle, floating around your ankles, and a delicate cascade of white feathers.
Of course, my own custom-designed, shimmering pink leotard that sends me across the decades!
Oh, my dears! If you're looking for some glamorous and vintage ballet-inspired style, then this is the era for you! Embrace those feminine cuts, experiment with bold colours, and donāt forget that bit of glittering detail. And remember, ballet isnāt just about perfect technique - it's also about having a fantastic time!
So, keep dancing, keep smiling, and always remember to wear pink! š
Catch you next month! Emma xo
P.S. Keep checking in on pink-tutu.com. Iāll be sharing my vintage ballet fashion finds!
#leotardfashion #1930sfashion #balletstyle #vintageballet #timetravel #pinksandsparkles #tutusforlife
